Eddyville, Iowa (Sept. 17, 2024) – Ajinomoto Health and Nutrition North America, Inc. (AHN) is proud to announce the successful launch of one of the region’s largest wetlands restoration projects. This week, AHN leaders joined the Eddyville community and conservation leaders from across Iowa for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate this significant environmental milestone.
The project involves transforming over 130 acres of cropland along the Des Moines River back into its original wetland habitat. This restoration effort will support a diverse range of wildlife, including endangered Indiana bats, whitetail deer, and various pollinators.
“For more than 100 years, we have been delivering on our mission to help the world eat well and live well,” said Ryan Smith, Chief Growth Officer and Executive Vice President at AHN. “This inspiring project is a significant milestone for our company, reflecting our commitment to Ajinomoto Shared Value (ASV) and sustainability in the communities where we operate and live.”
As part of the restoration efforts, AHN volunteers have planted over two thousand native trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses. The project also includes a half-mile gravel walking path around the wetland, which is expected to become a popular destination for bird watchers, plant and wildlife enthusiasts, and community members.
“While the wetland restoration is still in its beginning stages, we can already see the impact it will have on generations to come,” said Steve Salevsky, Senior Director of Operations at the AHN Eddyville production facility. “We are incredibly passionate about our involvement in Eddyville and the greater southern Iowa region. This project gives us a new opportunity to support conservation efforts and bring people together right here in our backyard.”
The wetland has already become a favorite landmark for AHN team members, who built and installed birdhouses over the summer. To commemorate this milestone, AHN’s visual communication designer, Michael Foster, created a special t-shirt and poster. AHN family members will have the opportunity to tour the site during the company’s upcoming Family Day, where they will receive custom coloring books and seed packets inspired by the landscape.
Ajinomoto Health and Nutrition North America, Inc. is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This wetlands restoration project is a testament to our dedication to creating a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve. For more information about this project or to purchase wetland credits from AHN and support local sustainability efforts, please visit here.
